Struggling to Land a Full-Time HR Job Despite Experience: What Am I Missing?

Dear Seniors,

I am writing here to seek advice on the route I am taking to obtain a job opportunity in the field of Human Resource Management. I would like to start by giving a brief about me—I have 9 years of experience working with an internet company where my role was to support recruiters in finding the right talent. I already have a Master's degree with a specialization in HRM.

Challenges in Finding a Full-Time HR Job

Now, as I have decided to find a full-time job as an HR professional, I find it ironic that I am not able to get myself hired. I do not feel that this is a career change because I have experience in the talent acquisition process, as I was supporting corporate HRs in their hiring throughout the last 9 years.

Efforts and Concerns

I have been regularly applying for jobs on different portals and career sites, but so far, nothing fruitful has come my way. I feel that I might be missing out on something, but I am not able to understand where I am lacking.

Seeking Guidance

I would be truly thankful if you could guide me on how I can further refine my skills and knowledge to achieve the job I seek.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

You have had only limited exposure, it looks like, basically in recruitment and allied areas in the IT sector. This is only very limited exposure. As you have been through an HRM course, you lack exposure to other areas like Training and Development, wage and salary administration, legal compliances, Grievance management, IR, Welfare, incentive, and motivational schemes, etc. Try to get updates in these areas as you have the required basic understanding.

The industries are only recovering from the pandemic-caused recession. As the economy grows, more and more opportunities will come. Don't be upset at the setback you are experiencing now. Did you have a career break?

Dear Colleague,

I have been well briefed by our colleague. Your strong skill set lies in Talent Acquisition (TA). I suggest focusing initially on entering a corporate company by leveraging this core skill for the TA Head opening. There are numerous openings in TA across various sectors such as IT, Non-IT, Manufacturing, and more. It is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the entire talent acquisition cycle. Tailor your skill sets accordingly and ensure you have a well-crafted CV. With over 9 years of experience and qualifications in HRM, you are well-positioned to secure a TA Head role in a corporate setting.

1) It is beneficial to read a variety of e-books on topics such as Industrial Relations (IR), Compliance, Compensation and Benefits (Comp and Ben), Organizational Behavior, and others.

2) Alternatively, consider pursuing a certification program from reputed institutes like IIM to advance your career in HR.

3) Join professional organizations such as NIHRD, NIPM, CII, and actively participate in conferences. Networking and building connections are vital as corporate opportunities often arise through contacts rather than traditional job portals.

Once you secure a position in a corporate environment, consider exploring internal role changes in areas such as IR, Compliance, Comp and Ben, Training, to diversify your skills. This strategic move can eventually lead to a progression towards becoming an HR Head. Wishing you all the best in your career endeavors.

Best regards,